I consider myself a positive thinker. I try to look on the bright side, I try not to get caught up in too much negativity, and I always try to find the silver lining.

Without a doubt, our world is affected by our state of mind. This is not a new concept. If you’ve seen The Secret, or dabbled in psychology or metaphysics at all, you know that there are entire systems which take positive thought a step further.

The Law of Attraction refers to the belief that that we attract our own realities through our thoughts. Like attracts like. If we are positive and appreciative for what we already have, we will continue to attract more of the same into our life. If we tend toward negativity, hopelessness, and belief that our lives will always be lacking, then that is what we will attract. Our thoughts become our reality.

Applying the Law of Attraction to affect change includes the use of creative visualization to “manifest” what we desire. Creative visualization is a technique that was first described in ancient texts and is used today by successful people worldwide, from all walks of life. It’s been “discovered” and repackaged by different experts in different fields for centuries, but the idea remains the same. Very simply put – visualize what you want, believe it’s yours, and it will come to you.

Photo by insung yoon on Unsplash

Critics and naysayers call this “magical thinking.” It is not difficult to see why. If mere thought could result in life changing abundance, wouldn’t we have all won the lottery by now? There are “abundance coaches” telling people that they can have whatever they want, effortlessly, backed up by testimonials and snapshots of boats and cars manifested in weeks.

I’m all for dream big or go home, but I have not manifested my Aston Martin as of yet…

Is it all just wishful thinking? Why then, are there scientific studies proving creative visualization to be an effective technique for achieving a desired outcome (particularly with regard to personal performance)? Why does it work for some people and not others, if it’s a law? Why do so many super-successful people swear by the technique?

The truth is, the principals of the Law of Attraction can be a powerful tool for creating the life you want – if applied with intelligence and hard work. That is the difference.

The universe owes us nothing. We are responsible for our own lives. Opportunities may abound, but if you’re not taking any action, nothing is going to happen. Those who’ve used the Law of Attraction and achieved success usually put in a significant amount of hard work along the way. It just seems that they are luckier than the average person…

But it might be one of those chicken and egg questions. Let me explain.

To successfully apply the Law of Attraction, you need to first feel gratitude for everything you already have. This makes you feel more positive in general, which will permeate all areas of your life.

Second, you need to figure out what your goals are and exactly what you want. You can’t focus on a clear picture if you don’t have one. This forces you to think about what you really want and why it matters. This in itself can be motivating. And also very freeing. (Clear the clutter – we waste so much time and energy on things that just don’t matter.)

Then, you need to visualize yourself having already achieved this goal. This mental picture needs to be as detailed as possible, including all of the positive emotions you’ll feel when you’ve accomplished your goal. You need to believe that you are in that moment, and that you’ve already obtained your desire.

Belief and intention are two things that set creative visualization apart from ordinary daydreams. As you go about your day, you need to believe that the universe is on your side and that it will provide you with everything you need to accomplish your goals.

And finally, you need to get to work. That’s the key ingredient. You HAVE TO put in time and effort if you expect this to work. The universe is indifferent and fairies don’t do dishes lol. It’s your responsibility to get things done.

Now that your actions align with your clearly-defined goals, you probably have forward momentum and a sense of purpose. It’s easier to get up in the morning, easier to ignore everyday stressors and distractions, and easier to remain positive and productive. This, against the backdrop of deep gratitude for what you already have, will naturally lead to increased self-confidence and a greater sense of well-being.

Then you’ll start to notice things….coincidences, new opportunities, little signs that reinforce your belief that you’re on your way to greater things. Even if you’re skeptical about the LOA and “manifestation,” you might notice that you’re having a pleasant streak of luck…things just seem to be going your way…